Your browser version may not work well with NCBI's Web applications. More information here...
1: Hepatology. 1991 Nov;14(5):806-10.Links

Azathioprine hepatotoxicity after liver transplantation.

Sterneck M, Wiesner R, Ascher N, Roberts J, Ferrell L, Ludwig J, Lake J.

Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco 94146.

We report the first two cases of apparent azathioprine hepatotoxicity occurring after liver transplantation. The two patients exhibited jaundice, elevated serum transaminase activities and histopathological features of sinusoidal congestion and centrilobular hepatocellular degeneration 17 and 61 days after transplantation. After withdrawal of azathioprine, liver test results improved immediately in both patients. Recurrence of liver injury after another challenge with azathioprine was seen in the first case. Previously, fatal venoocclusive disease occurring after kidney transplantation had been attributed to azathioprine. Irreversible venoocclusive disease and the reversible hepatotoxicity described in this report (i.e., sinusoidal congestion with centrizonal necrosis) most likely represent different stages of hepatic endotheliitis caused by azathioprine. Thus early diagnosis of azathioprine hepatotoxicity is of great importance.

PMID: 1937385 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Patient Drug Information

  • Mercaptopurine (Purinethol® )

    Your doctor has ordered the drug mercaptopurine to help treat your illness. The drug is taken by mouth in tablet form.

  • Azathioprine (Azasan® , Imuran® )

    Azathioprine is used with other medications to prevent rejection of kidney transplants. It is also used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis (a condition in which the body attacks its own joints, causing pain and swellin...

  • Source: AHFS Consumer Medication Information